Common Name:`RED AND YELLOW BALAU
Botanical Name: Barbata, Ciliata, Shorea
Family: Dipterocarpaceae
Distribution: Malaysia (known as Selangan Batu), Indonesia (known as Bangkirai)
Strength Details: Density: 850 – 1150kg/m3 when well Air-dried (below 24% moisture content).
(The Malaysian Timber Industry
Board)
Classified as Very Durable. It is a hard, heavy and strong timber (TRADA 1978), with strength properties similar to those of Greenheart.
Characteristics: Grain is interlocked. Texture is fine and even. Colour varies between yellowish-brown.
Usage: Suitable for all forms of heavy construction. Used for bridges,beams, framework of boats, dock blocks, wagons and heavy-duty flooring.
Summary: Balau is a very durable wood and has a proven track record.
It is much more readily available than ipe but not quite as hard wearing.This is reflected in the price. It is, however, by far the most widely used hard wood for decking in this country.
